Biostatistics: practice question

A PSM question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

Try it

PSM · Biostatistics

Sample item

What does statistical power describe?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Ability to detect a true effect

Statistical power is the probability of detecting an effect when a true effect exists, and it rises with adequate sample size and signal strength.

Option by option

  • A. Probability of false positive only

    False-positive probability is related to alpha, not power alone.

  • B. Ability to detect a true effect (correct)

    Correct: power measures true-effect detection ability.

  • C. Disease prevalence

    Prevalence is an epidemiologic frequency measure.

  • D. Standard deviation

    Standard deviation describes data spread.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More PSM questions

Questions about this PSM question

What is the answer to this PSM question?

The best answer is B, Ability to detect a true effect. Statistical power is the probability of detecting an effect when a true effect exists, and it rises with adequate sample size and signal strength.

Why is "Probability of false positive only" not the answer?

False-positive probability is related to alpha, not power alone.

Why is "Disease prevalence" not the answer?

Prevalence is an epidemiologic frequency measure.

Why is "Standard deviation" not the answer?

Standard deviation describes data spread.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Biostatistics in PSM. The correct option holds because: Correct: power measures true-effect detection ability.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Biostatistics?

Practise biostatistics with small calculations until sensitivity, predictive values and risk measures are automatic. Then use the flashcards and the other PSM questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.